Analytical electron microscope study of eight ataxites

Optical and electron optical (SEM, TEM, AEM) techniques were employed to investigate the fine structure of eight ataxite-iron meteorites. Structural studies indicated that the ataxites can be divided into two groups; a Widmanstätten decomposition group and a martensite decomposition group. The Widmanstätten decomposition group has a Type I plessite microstructure and the central taenite regions contain highly dislocated lath martensite. The steep M shaped Ni gradients in the taenite are consistent with the fast cooling rates, ≥500°C/my, observed for this group. The martensite decomposition group has a Type III plessite microstructure and contains all the chemical group IVB ataxites. The maximum taenite Ni contents vary from 47.5 to 52.7 wt% and are consistent with slow cooling to low temperatures ≤350°C at cooling rates ≤25°C/my. Ordered FeNi and the cloudy border structure were not observed in any of the ataxites. Modest reheating to ≤350°C may have been responsible for the lack of these structures.